Exam time can be stressful, but the University of Windsor offers some unique services to help its students cope.

Wellness Boxes, mystery boxes filled with tools for exam stress relief, are distributed around campus in the weeks before the exam period, and students are invited to take a break from their studies to find one and pick it up at locations across campus.

Spoiler alert: The boxes contain things like bubble wrap for popping to aid in stress relief, sticky notes and a pen on which students can write a positive message to themselves or a friend, a list of health and wellness resources on campus and in the community, a stress ball and a set of five study tips.

Students are also encouraged to look for banners posted on campus where they can read or post positive affirmations on sticky notes. “Take what you need and leave the rest,” students are told.

The campus mascot “Winston” tours student gathering spots to provide a few laughs along with some study tips and wellness gifts during peak times, as well.

“One of the most effective ways to keep on studying is, believe it or not, to take breaks. Yes, we’re giving you the excuse to stop, clear your mind and take a moment to refocus the brain! Wellness Boxes…little boxes filled with tools for exam stress relief will be disbursed around campus for you to grab.”